August 21, 2026 • 11:04 PM EDT
Updated 13 days ago
Al-Nassr kicked off this Saudi Pro League season strongly, picking up wins and scoring goals without their captain on the pitch. Fans expected Cristiano Ronaldo to finally return for the high-stakes Riyadh derby against Al-Riyadh, but the big headline is that he’s still waiting for his first competitive appearance of the new campaign.
The Portugal captain’s absence isn’t just a minor footnote, either. After watching his team open the season with a 3-0 win over Al-Fateh and then pass their King’s Cup test with a 4-1 result against Al-Diriyah, supporters have had their excitement tempered by Ronaldo’s continued role as a spectator. As per World Soccer Talk, the team confirmed he’s only among the substitutes for this derby, despite all the anticipation.
Here’s what matters: Ange Postecoglou has the superstar available, but he’s refused to rush him back into the starting eleven. There’s good reason for caution. Over the summer, Ronaldo had an unusual preseason—his post-World Cup break ran longer than most, and a busy wedding kept him apart from the squad a bit more. That meant less preparation time and, crucially, reports say he picked up a pelvic muscle issue. This kept Ronaldo training separately and under careful eye from Al-Nassr’s medical team. With a long, demanding schedule ahead, Postecoglou clearly sees little upside in risking a relapse.
So, why does this matter for you as a bettor or fan? Simple: Al-Nassr aren’t just holding steady without Ronaldo. They’ve actually thrived, bagging seven goals in their first two games while only conceding once. The likes of Joao Felix, Angelo, and Sadio Mane have stepped up to keep the attack fluid and dangerous—meaning the team’s confidence is high even without their talisman to start matches.
In terms of squad news, here are the confirmed lineups for the Riyadh derby:
- Al-Riyadh (4-3-3): Borjan; Al Essa, Majrashi, Al Khaibari, Hazazi; Keita, Al Jayzani, Mensah; Okou, Curto Antunes, Trezeguet.
- Al-Nassr (4-2-3-1): Bento; Boushal, Al Amri, Martinez, Al Najdi; Al Khaibari, Angelo; Coman, Joao Felix, Mane; Al Hamdan.
Key developments for Al-Nassr and Ronaldo’s return
- Ronaldo remains on the bench, not in the starting lineup, for the Riyadh derby.
- He missed Al-Nassr’s season opener and King’s Cup match already.
- The hold-back is due to limited preseason, a pelvic muscle issue, and late return from his break.
- Ronaldo’s inclusion as a substitute marks progress in his recovery.
- Al-Nassr have scored seven and conceded just once in his absence.
Why Al-Nassr aren’t taking any risks
With such a long season ahead and big ambitions—both domestically and in Asia—it’s smart management not to gamble on an aging legend’s fitness. There’s simply no reason to take risks that could sideline Ronaldo for even longer. Instead, Al-Nassr’s approach also lets their new-look attack gel even further before adding the finishing touches that only Ronaldo can provide.
Postecoglou’s selection gives you insight on what matters for future matches. If Al-Nassr’s attack keeps clicking, the pressure to reintegrate Ronaldo quickly drops, and we may see measured minutes for him off the bench until he’s fully sharp. For live bettors, watch closely for second-half appearances and late goals once the legend is finally introduced.
Key takeaways for fans and bettors
- Ronaldo sits on the bench again for Al-Nassr’s Riyadh derby, as he remains short of match sharpness.
- Late return and a pelvic muscle issue have delayed his season start.
- Al-Nassr’s attack has impressed and scored freely without relying on Ronaldo so far.
- Joao Felix, Angelo, and Mane give Postecoglou options up front for squad rotation.
- There’s little value in betting on an immediate Ronaldo return to full action—expect cautious minutes at first.
- Betting markets could shift once he’s fit, so monitor team news for his return to the eleven.
- If you’re backing goals, Al-Nassr’s depth makes them dangerous with or without their captain.
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